A hydraulic power pack is a self-contained system including a motor, a fluid reservoir and a pump. It provides the necessary energy to run different equipment across various applications. When maintained correctly these units can have an increased lifespan. Preventative maintenance should be undertaken to ensure that the unit does not break down, which will then need to be handled by a professional. However, there are routine preventative maintenance tasks that can be undertaken to keep the units in good working condition.
• Filters need to be cleaned or changed when either the indicator on the equipment alerts you, or if there is no indicator refer to the manual to determine how often filters need to be replaced or cleaned. When cleaning the filter, follow the instructions to confirm that you are removing all the contaminants, and if your filter does need to be replaced, the manual will be able to inform you of the correct filter to use.
• Check the oil to determine if it is running too hot, and if so, it will be darker than usual and smell burnt. The oil will also need to be replaced to maintain the lifespan of the power pack. Refer to the requirements of the manufacturer to determine how many hours of use indicates a change of oil (it can be between 1 000 and 2 000 hours of use). The more the unit is used, the more often the oil will need to be changed.
• When checking the oil, the oil levels in the reservoir need to be maintained. This needs to be done often to make sure that the level does not drop below where it should be. When using a new unit, check the oil levels ideally after 100 hours of use.
• After 10 hours of use, and there after every 100 hours, the suction strainers need to be cleaned as dirt can build up overtime. This timing will need to be confirmed with the manufacturer.
Power packs provide hydraulic power to valves in machinery in order for the machine to work. Keeping these units in good condition through preventative maintenance allows for less down time and overall success. Knowing how to maintain your unit is important and the manual or manufacturer should be referred to when uncertain.
Power Team SA stocks a wide range of power units suitable for all hydraulic applications. Power Team SA has sourced leading hydraulic brands to offer the best possible solutions to their clients and enhance their operations and lower operating and maintenance costs. Their power packs are available fully assembled or as standalone products; have easy mounting options due to compact sizing; include various modes to adapt to all applications; and, have protective and monitoring valves. Through decades of experience working with hydraulic components, Power Team SA is able to provide expert solutions for their clients’ hydraulic power pump needs.